Visiting Soviet Doctor Changes His Statement

UPI

Published: February 10, 1985

''I am not his personal physician,'' the Russian, Dr. Yevgeny I. Chazov, said through an interpreter while attending a meeting of physicians concerned about the nuclear arms race.

But Dr. Chazov, as chief of the Health Ministry's Fourth Department since 1967, is ultimately responsible for the health care of all Soviet leaders.

His arrival here Friday prompted speculation about Mr. Chernenko's condition. Moreover, Mr. Chernenko was reported to have taken part in a Politburo session the previous day.

In reply to questions, Dr. Chazov said Friday, ''If I am Chernenko's doctor and if I am here, then Chernenko is well because a doctor should be with his patient.'' There was no explanation for the change in statement today.

Dr. Hammer, who has known Soviet leaders since Lenin, visited Mr. Chernenko in Moscow in December. In addition, United Press International's Moscow bureau said Friday that it was accurate to describe Dr. Chazov as the personal doctor.